New Tehri – A serious allegation of indecent conduct and molestation involving two female learners—one a minor—has surfaced at the Shri Raghunath Kirti Campus of Central Sanskrit University in Devprayag, Tehri district.
Complaint Leads to FIR
Following a formal grievance lodged by the campus authorities, the Bah Bazaar police filed a First Information Report (FIR) against Dr. Suryamani Bhandari, a faculty member, invoking relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The incident is reported to have occurred on 22 August. On 21 September, the campus in‑charge submitted a written complaint accusing the teacher of inappropriate conduct and molestation of the two students. The university simultaneously opened an internal probe.
Police Investigation Commences
After the FIR was registered, investigators began gathering statements, forensic material, and any other evidence. SSI Anita Negi, the investigating officer, emphasized that the case is being pursued impartially, based solely on the facts presented.
Negi added that because certain provisions of the POCSO Act prescribe a maximum imprisonment of less than seven years, the police are adhering to the statutory arrest procedure.
Station House Officer Inspector Amarjeet confirmed that the campus director’s written complaint specifically mentioned alleged physical contact with the students. Law enforcement is scrutinizing every facet of the allegation and cross‑checking the supporting documentation.
Teacher Suspended Pending Inquiry
In light of the gravity of the accusations, the university administration has immediately suspended Dr. Suryamani Bhandari until the conclusion of the investigations.
Institution Director PBV Subramanyam noted that the teacher has been relocated to the campus guest house to prevent any interference with the ongoing inquiry. The university has also launched its own internal investigation to ascertain the full scope of the matter.
